Issuu

E T T E Z GA RI N G 20 22 ’ BR IG A D E | SP YS BO E TH IN S ER LE AD TH E M AG AZ IN E FO R

IN THIS ISSUE VISION: BACK TO THE FUTURE... PAGE 06

TOOLBOX: E-LEARNING FOR LEADERS PAGE 24

BOYS - B R I GA D E .O R G . U K / GA Z E T T E

06 Spring 2022:

The Gazette is the official magazine of The Boys’ Brigade in the United Kingdom & Republic of Ireland. The Object of The Boys’ Brigade The advancement of Christ’s kingdom among Boys and the promotion of habits of Obedience, Reverence, Discipline, Self-respect and all that tends towards a true Christian manliness. Please send all contributions to gazette@boys-brigade.org.uk Official notices to members appear in the ‘Informed’ section of the magazine. Please note that views expressed in other articles by members and contributors are not necessarily those of The Boys’ Brigade. For details on advertising within the magazine see our rate card and information at boys-brigade.org.uk/gazetteratecard.htm Editorial Team John Sharp (Editor), Tom Boorman and Jenny Bradley Designed by Printed by www.visiontank.co.uk Halcyon

TURE... VISION: BACK TO THE FU

ISSUE CONTENTS

VOLUM E 130: N O 1 | SPRIN G 2022

Welcome

Informed

Your Views and News

Focus

Global

The Boys’ Brigade is a Company limited by guarantee, registered in England & Wales number 145122.

Directory

A registered charity in England & Wales number 305969 and in Scotland number SC038016.

BB Supplies

Publishing & Circulation Termly (Autumn, Spring, Summer) Average circulation during 2021: 7,500 copies

Patron: H. M. The Queen Chief Executive: Jonathan Eales UK & ROI Headquarters Felden Lodge Hemel Hempstead Herts HP3 0BL Tel: 0300 303 4454 Email: support@boys-brigade.org.uk

Registered Office: Felden Lodge, Hemel Hempstead, HP3 0BL, UK For More Information Visit our website at: www.boys-brigade.org.uk

@theboysbrigade

/theboysbrigade

When you have finished with this magazine please recycle it. Thank you.

TOOLBOX: COMPANY FINDER AND ONLINE JOINING FORMS

MEE T THE NEW PRESIDENT

GET INVOLVED: RALEIGH INTERNATIONAL

THE WAY I SEE IT... Read More Online To read more features, watch video & enter competitions visit our website. Check out the digital and online versions at:

boys-brigade.org.uk/gazette

TOOLBOX: E-LEARNING FOR LEADERS

twitter.com/bbgazette @BBGAZETTE

BOYS-BRIGADE.ORG.UK/GAZETTE

WELCOME Welcome

s another extraordinary year draws to a close, I am reminded of the words of one leader - “this year has been about focussing on what is possible, rather than on dwelling on the things we usually do”. What a positive approach to the challenges we have faced. From all that has been shared in survey responses, webinars, social media and in conversations, I know many leaders have taken this view too. The past 18 months have given us all the chance to look at things afresh, with many Companies experimenting with new formats and embracing new activities. The Go Wild Challenge resources, new programmes for over 11s and the Open To… Campaign have all been about assisting leaders to look afresh at what we do. As we have returned to face-to-face activities this session, we have also had the opportunity to reflect on the meaning and purpose of our work with children and young people. As Chief Executive this is something I have often thought about over the past year, particularly when faced with difficult decisions and balancing the financial uncertainties with how best to support leaders. My primary focus is to improve the quality of experience for children and young people, and our five-year strategy sets out the ways to achieve this.

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At the heart of our plans is reaffirming who we are as an organisation. At our core is sharing the good news of Jesus and providing opportunities, in partnership with the local Church, for children and young people to develop a personal relationship with Him. I am delighted that Rev Dez Johnston has been appointed as our new President. Dez is a great communicator of the Gospel and I view his appointment as an important step in strengthening our relationships with the various denominations as we partner them in mission. At this time of year we recall that the coming of Christ into the world is a story of great hope, a call to keep going and not to give up. Remembering the presence of Jesus in our lives, it is the perfect time to remind ourselves that our organisation has at its core a message of hope, that is for all of us to share. With best wishes,

Jonathan Eales Chief Executive

Follow Jonathan on Twitter at:

@jonathanealesbb

n the last Gazette, Rev Stewart Cutler talked about identity and about how our identity is in Christ.

So, Chaplains, this bit is for you. Help us to help you to ‘go and make disciples’ in your BB Company. What support do you need? What would it be helpful for us to provide you? Do you have specific questions that you’re struggling to get answers for? Please do get in touch and help us provide resources that you will find useful, you can contact me on: leigh.maydew@boys-brigade.org.uk

So, hi, I’m Leigh, I’m a Christian and some of you may recognise my name because you voted for me to be the National Chaplain at Brigade Council in September.

THE WAY I SEE IT

A quality experience for all…

Rev Leigh Maydew

As National Chaplain I work alongside others as part of the Christian Faith Group. This is a group of people from across the organisation with a particular focus on the Christian Faith foundations of the BB. We are currently looking at the relationship that the BB has, as a national organisation and as local Companies, with Chaplains. We are conscious that the statistical returns each year show that quite a significant number of Companies do not have a registered Chaplain. We want to ensure that the quality experience that our fiveyear strategy is seeking to provide across the organisation also includes a quality experience for Chaplains, and ensuring they receive the support that they might need to undertake their role. In order for us to provide that support, it’s really important that your Chaplains are registered so that we can contact them. If you’re a Company Captain/Correspondent make sure your Chaplain is listed in the Leaders section on OBM, if not then grab hold of the form from the website and get them registered. The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) calls us all to go and make disciples of all nations. As BB leaders we all have a part to play in that Commission, because we are all called by God, our identity is in Christ as Stewart reminded us previously. However, BB Chaplains have a special and unique role to play in this too. Chaplains are, after all, the direct link between the local Church and the Company, but unlike BB leaders, in many situations they receive no real training to take on the role of a Chaplain.

Leigh is a Methodist Minister serving in the Bristol and South Gloucestershire Circuit and is in his final term as the National Chaplain of The Boys’ Brigade. With a background in youth and community work, Leigh really enjoys the opportunity to spend time with his local BB Company and is looking forward to Battalion Camp in the summer after two years of cancellations. In his spare time Leigh enjoys walking his two rescue Collies with his family and often adding to the pack by joining with friends and colleagues. In recent months he has also taken to the driving range in an attempt to learn how to play golf.

@BBGAZETTE

BOYS-BRIGADE.ORG.UK/GAZETTE

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VISION

BAC K TO . . . E R U T U F E H T 06

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wo years ago an independent strategic review took place to help the Brigade plan its journey for the next five years. Leaders from across England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales and the Republic of Ireland took part in the review through an online survey, focus groups and 1:1 interviews.

At our AGM in Swansea in 2019, Graeme Reekie of Wren and Greyhound, who led the independent review, reported to us on the conclusions of the review. He essentially told us that the organisation had actually previously identified what it needed to do to tackle declining membership that has been the overall reality since the 1980s, but then hadn’t done it. It’s not rocket science after all, is it? Young people will vote with their feet – if they don’t enjoy what they are doing, if they don’t see the benefits, if it’s not good enough, then they won’t stay long. The clear message from the strategic review was that we needed to focus our efforts and energies on enhancing the quality of experience that is offered to children and young people, ensuring that it is the constant high standard that we would all wish for.

88% of responds to the strategic review survey told us that improving quality was the key to our future.

Lockdown learnings Since our strategic review and the development of our five-year strategic plan, it’s fair to say a lot has happened. The resilience, resourcefulness, creativity and commitment shown by young people, volunteers and staff alike over the last 18 months has been incredible and has really showcased how amazing our organisation can be and how powerful an impact we can have on young peoples’ lives. Just have a look at just some of the amazing things that parents/carers told us about the impact and value of BB on their children over the last 18 months on page 14.

“When the BB works, it works very well and there is nothing better.” – 2019 Strategic Review Survey Respondent We have worked in new and different ways than we have done before, including:

• developing an alternative programme that can be used by parents/carers at home • delivering programmes and online activities • running more outdoor based activities • engaging with more leaders than ever before through webinars and virtual training We certainly hope that this session will be one that is focussed on face-to-face activities, but there is surely much from the last 18 months that will have a longer term place in terms of offering a quality experience for children and young people. Article Continued

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What we’ve been doing and what we will be doing... Although much has changed since our strategic review in 2019, the three overall aims of the five-year strategy which we launched at the beginning of this year are still as relevant as ever, in particular the focus on quality.

Over this first year of our five-year strategy, whilst continuing to support Companies in navigating Covid restrictions, the following have been completed: New Over 11s programme Leader Development Community launched New brand identities for Company and Senior age groups

Improving the consistency of experience for children and young people QUALITY

VOICE

Raise the profile of the organisation and increase the participation of children and young people in shaping and representing the organisation at all levels Stabilise our overall membership and support growth where possible

Website refreshed and updated Open To… Campaign supporting opportunity for growth Young Leaders Group established As we move into the second year of the strategy our plans will include:

• Defining the quality of experience for children and young people in the BB

• Reviewing and evaluating the organisation’s support structures

• Supporting leaders with online registration, e-learning, Leaders Code of Conduct

• Building and developing relationships with Churches and

GROWTH

denominations

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At the heart of our work The Brigade was founded 138 years ago for the purpose of engagement and outreach to children and young people to advance Christ’s kingdom. Everything within the Brigade, whether within a Company or our support structures (Battalions, Districts, Regions, HQ) is there to serve that purpose. Children and young people are of course at the centre of our work.

I’ve made changes to our staff team, a change that as Chief Executive I discussed and agreed with our Trustees. This change has, I believe, allowed us to work more effectively than at any other point in my 15 years working for the Brigade and allows us to make the fullest use of the skills and talents we have amongst our 19 employees. However, we need to go further as we look at the whole support structure of the organisation and whether it is fulfilling its role of providing the best possible support to leaders in Companies working with children and young people. As we prepare to move into the second year of the strategic plan another key focus will be working with leaders to define the quality of experience for children and young people. The aim of this is not about all Companies being required to offer identical experiences, but it is about defining what are the key common characteristics that demonstrate quality within the BB, like for example a planned programme, positive relationships with parents/carers and community outreach. I’m sure there will continue to be bumps in the road that we will come across. Not everyone will agree with every aspect of every change. However, I hope that all leaders would accept that the focus and basis of our decision making is on improving the quality and consistency of experience for children and young people, and is rooted in advancing Christ’s kingdom.

Jonathan Eales Chief Executive We should never be afraid of doing things differently because it means making changes to our structures or traditions. Over the last 18 months there have been many challenges we have had to deal which have required us to change, and I believe further changes will be needed because of where we want to get to.

Follow Jonathan on Twitter at:

@jonathanealesbb

Find out more about our five-year strategy at: boys-brigade.org.uk/who-we-are/our-strategic-plan

“Be bold and be strong” – Joshua 1:9 @BBGAZETTE

BOYS-BRIGADE.ORG.UK/GAZETTE

MEET THE NEW PRESIDENT

OUR W O N K O T G IN T T GE SIDENT E R P E D A IG R B W E N

ollowing his election as the 14th Brigade President, we had the opportunity to sit down with Rev Dez Johnston and find out a bit more about him.

Besides being the new Brigade President, what else do you do? I’m the Director of Alpha Scotland, along with being the Alpha Youth Director for Europe, the Middle East and North Africa. It does what it says on the tin – I connect people across the region and help young people connect with God. How did you end up where you are today? The day I became a Christian was the single biggest change in my life. When I was younger, I really wanted to be a DJ and ended up in a spiral of taking drugs. I ended up taking

GAZETTE - SPRING 2022

an overdose and cried out to whoever would listen; after that I never touched cocaine again. I then kept meeting Christians. I remember hiring a new employee where I was working, and she was a Christian. I asked her to take me to Church and was then invited on an Alpha Course which I loved. I gave up my job and started volunteering for the Church as a youth worker, then I kept on getting more involved to the point I ended up at Bible college. I married the girl who took me to Church and became ordained as a Baptist minister, working in an area of deprivation a couple of days a week whilst also working for Alpha the other few. In 2018 I became the Director for Scotland for Alpha. It’s certainly been a busy last 13 years! What is the most memorable experience you’ve had in your career? In September 2021 I was the main Sunday speaker at Holy Trinity Brompton, probably one of the biggest Churches in the UK and where Alpha started. It’s

ridiculous considering I’m just a man from a small village in the north of Scotland. However, some of my most memorable experiences might not mean much to anyone else. For example, I remember just sitting talking to a group of young people in a field in the Falklands and one of them became a Christian after speaking to them for about an hour and a half. Sometimes it’s those smaller moments that actually matter more in life. Who has had the biggest influence on your life? My father-in-law. He is just a genuine humble man of God. He has known me since the start of my journey and loves me for me. He just has a relationship with Jesus that I want to have. What do you think you can bring to The Boys’ Brigade? Chaos! A different perspective to a lot of things and I really hope that I bring vision and opportunity for other people. I would love to see more young people in leadership roles. How would you describe what The Boys’ Brigade offers young people? We offer a space for young people to find out who they truly are in loads of different ways. It does it better than anywhere else. Where do you see yourself in five years? I really hope I’m doing what I do now. I love what I do and I want to have more impact. I didn’t even think I’d get to where I am or what I’m doing today. Will you be getting a BB tattoo and can we video it? Absolutely! My tattoo artist is up in Keith in the north of Scotland so definitely. What three tips would you give to our young people? 1. Follow your passion, whatever that is… chase it. 2. Be confident in yourself. 3. Always use your manners.

Fact Profile Birthday: 1st December 1982 Current residence: Kirkintilloch (north of Glasgow) Meal of choice: Kom Po beef with fried rice Favourite place: Loch Morlich in the Highlands Favourite Hymn/Worship song: Reckless Love or Highlands

@BBGAZETTE

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INFORMED

Brigade Council 2021

Brigade Staff Team

This year's Brigade Council (our AGM) was once again held virtually with the meeting focusing on the achievements and challenges of the past 12 months. There were also presentations on the new Programme Resources and the Open To… Campaign.

Over the last 18 months we’ve learnt a great deal as we have worked through and adapted to one of the biggest challenges the Brigade has faced in 138 years.

The following motions were presented, discussed, and approved by the meeting:

• Adoption of Accounts to year end 31st March 2021 • Appointment of Auditors for 2021/22 • Capitation Fees for 2021/22 session • Appointment of Office Bearers for 2021/22 session, including the appointment of Rev Dez Johnston as Brigade President

LATEST NEWS, REPORTS AND UPDATES FROM BB HEADQUARTERS

• Replacing Section Two of Brigade Regulations (Mission Statement) with our Vision, Mission & Values

Full details of the motions passed can be found at: boys-brigade.org.uk/brigade-conference/ Check out our Annual Review for 2020/21, which provides an overview of activities and events during last session : boys-brigade.org.uk/who-we-are/annual-review/

Last Spring, using the Government’s Job Retention Scheme the majority of the Brigade’s staff team were placed on Furlough Leave, with the remaining staff working as one team to create and deliver #BBatHOME, provide support to leaders and fulfil all our statutory obligations. After reflecting on the experiences of operating in this way, with the staff organised as one layer (as opposed to the previous two layers of regional and HQ staff), it was concluded that it would actually be a more effective way of making full use of the skills and experiences of the Brigade’s small staff team to support the delivery our five year strategy and its focus on consistency of quality of experience for children and young people. We have recently welcomed Jenny Bradley to the role of Communications & Fundraising Officer and Ambika Chadda to the role of Executive Assistant. We have also said goodbye to three long-standing members of Brigade staff; Irene Davidson, Graham Weston and Eileen Pettigrew. We thank them for their years of service and wish them every blessing for the future.

Key staff contacts Jonathan Eales, Chief Executive Natalie Whipday, Director for Operations (and lead for England and Wales) John Sharp, Director for Development and Communications (and lead for Scotland) Alan Hunter, Leader Development Manager

AMBIKA CHADDA

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

Vaughan Staples, Development & Support Manager Chris Norman Delivery & Programme Manager Debbie Moore, Safeguarding Manager For further staff contact information please visit: boys-brigade.org.uk/who-to-contact/

JENNY BRADLEY

& COMMUNICATIONS ER FIC OF FUNDRAISING

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Leaders Code of Conduct The Code of Conduct and Code of Good Practice (blue card) have now been reviewed, updated and combined. The new Leaders Code of Conduct sets out the standards of behaviour and conduct expected from all BB leaders. This is important as leaders are in a position of authority and influence over children and young people and are seen as role models. By following the Code, leaders will ensure they always conduct themselves appropriately, doing the right thing in the right way. This will ensure that children and young people are protected from harm; situations where misunderstandings, concerns or allegations occur are reduced; and all safeguarding concerns and allegations, and any complaints are managed in line with our policies and procedures. Leaders are responsible for making sure they have read, understood and agree to follow the Code of Conduct. Please take time to read through the full Code of Conduct: boys-brigade.org.uk/leader-code-of-conduct/

As part of our Strategic Plan the Leader Development Group has launched the ‘Leader Development Community’, which will build on the work of the Brigade Training Officers (BTO) network, to further enhance the quality of training and support provided to leaders. The Leader Development Community will be an active group of Trainers, who hold to our vision, mission and values. It will develop in a spirit of togetherness, with members of the community encouraged to assist in the development of the skills of other members of the community and the training materials being delivered. It will be a diverse community, with individuals who offer many different skills and competencies with different experiences of the Brigade and the world around us.

Leader Development Community A small Leader Development Group, comprising leaders from across the UK, has been tasked by the Brigade Executive with bringing consistency of quality to our training across the Brigade.

A consistent approach to selection, training and support for members will be provided regardless of where the trainers are based or complete the initial Leader Development Training course. If you are interested in joining the community or to find out more please visit: boys-brigade.org.uk/leader-development-community/

President's Commendation During 1st Rugby’s Enrolment Service in October, a number of Major Awards were presented as well as a President’s Commendation to Bobby Elson for outstanding personal contribution and dedication to the Brigade. The award was presented by Ian Rumbelow, Brigade Vice-President.

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Parents/Carers Survey Our 2021 Parents/Carers survey highlighted just how important and highly valued the work of the BB has been for families over the last 12 – 18 months. Parents/carers expressed their concerns about the impact of the last 18 months on their child's mental health and wellbeing, highlighting the reduced social interactions that have been a feature of all our lives. Not surprisingly there was a strong hope expressed in being able to get back to face-to-face activities, but

also an acknowledgement that virtual activities and #BBatHOME had played an important part in their child's lives. 95% of parents/carers agreed that BB activities had a positive impact on their child’s mental health and wellbeing over the last 12 months. 91% of parents/carers agreed that BB activities had helped keep their child physically active over the last 12 months.

Q. What do you consider the greatest benefit or value of your child(ren) being involved in the BB?

Practical skills Opportunities for physical activity Personal growth & development Social interactions/being with friends Opportunities to explore Christian faith Working towards awards Having fun Other

“Helping children work in a team and the role models of BB leaders, including their faith in God.” “My child is autistic and this is the only group they have attended and want to keep attending” “I’m extremely happy with the positive impact on my children, self-development, enjoyment, social skills, career foundations etc.”

Q. Do you have a message we can share with our volunteer leaders who have kept BB activities going? “You are all amazing! Keep up the good work - you really do make a difference.” “Sincere thanks for maintaining an active programme, contact with our children, continuity, and resourcefulness through the last 18 months”

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“The leaders at our Company have done an amazing job over the last 12 months and I’m really grateful for their support which brought some stability to the children during a difficult time.”

“Well done for helping keep the hope going.” “You have been wonderful! We have really appreciated the impact that you have made on our child.”

Brand Guidelines Our branding guidelines help to ensure that our brand stands the test of time and maintains a consistent appearance. The brand is not just something that we use at BB Headquarters, it’s about our overall visual identity across the whole of the Brigade. It’s important we maintain our branding across all media whether online (i.e. websites, social media, videos, etc) or print (i.e. newsletters, posters, letters, etc). Remember that the brand should not take away creativity; but instead add clear guidelines to help us keep a strong and powerful identity.

Over the last 5 years we have been developing things further by introducing new branding for the age groups (also known as ‘sub-brands’), with logos and supporting guidelines for Anchors, Juniors, Company and Seniors. Leaders are encouraged to take a look at our branding guidelines and the additional resources available, like logo packs, recruitment posters and social media graphics, to help support applying the brand whether it be online or print. You can find all this and more at: boys-brigade.org.uk/ourbrand/

Virtual Museum

Obituaries

The Boys' Brigade Archive Trust has launched a Virtual Museum covering BB history and heritage from the founding in 1883 right up to the present day. Many of the pages include rare archive footage which has recently been digitised.

We record below the names of BB members who have recently died. We thank God for their faithful service to the Brigade and Church and their witness in the community.

Check out the BB Virtual Museum at: thebbmuseum.org

Stuart Arnott MBE Jan McKellar John (JP) Parsons Geoff Simmonds Albert Smith

4th Dunfermline 1st Tulliallan 1st Yate / Avon Battalion 12th Bromley / Bromley Battalion Aberdeen Battalion

Welcome to our New Companies It’s fantastic that we can report that the following Companies have recently enrolled:

COMPANY

CAPTAIN

CHURCH

1st Hadley

Luke Eggerton

Hadley Methodist Church

1st Worksop

Joseph Cooper

St Paul’s Worksop

@BBGAZETTE

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YOUR VIEWS AND NEWS

SNAPSHOTS BB MEMBERS AT E NATIONAL SERVIC OF REMEMBRANCE

London Fun Day Over 100 children and young people from London District had the opportunity to take part in a Fun Day at Felden Lodge (BB Headquarters). Anchors took part in some team challenges, a treasure hunt, crafts and more, whilst for Juniors, Company and Seniors the day was set around a series of ‘It’s a Knockout’ team building activities. Following a year of restricted opportunities, a great day was had by all!

3rd Falkirk BB @3rdFalkirkBB

G 5TH EXETER LASER TA

Well done to the Company Section who climbed 3,054ft to the summit of Ben Chonzie! A great achievement and brilliant to spend the day together on the hills again #Team3rdFalkirk

1st Knocknamuckley Boys’ Brigade Silver DofE expedition – complete. Roll on Gold!

1 ST C HAR LTON KI NGS JUNIOR S CAMP 16

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3RD AND 10TH ENFIELD ON C AMP

12th Newtownabbey cycle run Members of 12th Newtownabbey took part in a 7-mile cycle run from BB House in Belfast to the Company’s HQ at Whiteabbey Methodist Church to begin their Diamond Jubilee session. The pandemic has meant that Belfast Battalion’s annual door-to-door collection for Harmoni (formerly the Northern Ireland Institiute for the Disabled) could not take place so the Company is sending any sponsorship donations to that cause.

15TH PAISLEY C HOCOLATE TH

EME

Animal encounter at 4th Cheltenham Anchors at 4th Cheltenham had the opportunity to learn about and meet a variety of creatures including scorpions, tarantulas, snakes and more thanks to Wild Kids Reptile Parties!

Boys’ Brigade Martock Mud, mud and yet more mud! A brilliant part of our camp this year.

1ST NEILSTON GUIDE DOG VISIT @BBGAZETTE

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Watersports in Glasgow

Over 100 young people from 15 Companies in Glasgow took part in a watersports event at Pinkston Watersports in the centre of Glasgow, thanks to funding from the Scottish Government’s Summer of Play. Although it was the first time many of the young people had taken part in this kind of activity, once kitted up and on the water any fears soon disappeared.

1st Fraserburgh fundraising As part of work towards their Queen’s Badge, young people at 1st Fraserburgh ran a fundraiser to buy a seabin for Fraserburgh Harbour. A seabin is a machine that sits in the water and collects waste and debris, including micro-plastics, automatically 24 hours a day, helping to make a difference to the amount of pollution in waters. A range of different fundraising activities took place, and the Company raised an incredible £4,790.

Open To More weekend

‘Who am I that I should go?’ (Exodus 3:11) was the theme for Northern Ireland District’s Open To More weekend for 17 – 25 year olds. Sessions included exploring faith led by Made for More NI, drama with Crown Jesus Ministries, sports including spike ball with Salt Factory Sports, as well as ‘challenge hours’ focussed on the Programme Hub with competitions on the clock to deliver a chosen craft. Open to More was funded by the NI Education Authority.

Adventure Treks The BB Mountaineering Club organised two simultaneous Adventure Treks, one in the Brecon Beacons and one in the Peak District, with 65 BB members taking part across both locations. Participants had the opportunity to spend a day walking in the mountains and seek out a wreck of one of the large number of planes that crashed in remote locations during the Second World War.

51st Bonnyrigg BB @51stBB Excellent watersports evening, thanks to Driftwood Adventures! #BoysBrigade

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212th Glasgow BB @212GlasgowBB 30 children and young people from all age groups were at Auchengillan for a full day of activities. Anchors were dab hands at climbing and nightline!

#OPENTOBB

3rd Emsworth meet the alpacas!

It’s been fantastic to see Companies using the resources and materials developed as part of the Open To… Campaign. Over 150 Companies have been supported with customisable recruitment artwork for outdoors banners, posters or social media graphics.

Members of 3rd Emsworth enjoyed an evening at Mill Meadows Farm, Westbourne. The group had the opportunity to meet the alpacas along with their three babies (called cria) and fed, stroked and learnt about these surprisingly gentle animals from the borders of Peru. The evening finished with some wide games in the farm’s wild meadow that runs alongside the River Ems.

Visit from NI Education Minister

Michele McIlveen MLA, Northern Ireland’s Education Minister, visited Belfast Battalion’s Ganaway Activity Centre where she had a tour of the facility and enjoyed chatting to the young people, leaders and volunteers present.

Dundee & Angus Activity Day

Dundee & Angus Battalion held a ‘BB is Back’ activity day at Scott Lodge Outdoor Centre in Glen Doll. Over 80 children and young people took part, with Anchors and Juniors taking part in on site activities, and Company and Seniors hillwalking to the summit of Mayar – the first experience of bagging a Munro for some of the group. The day was organised and run by the Battalion’s Seniors Forum, supported by young leaders and the Leadership Team. @BBGAZETTE

BOYS-BRIGADE.ORG.UK/GAZETTE

FOCUS NORTHERN IRELAND

eaders in Northern Ireland have demonstrated great determination, hope, joy, creativity and enthusiasm in getting back to BB face-to-face; sharing the love of Jesus with their children and young people and focusing on Advancing Christ’s Kingdom with ‘One Big Message of Hope’.

Anchors at 24th Belfast are having some busy nights back at BB in the hall. Recently they learnt about the Bible story of the Lost Sheep, craft time drawing and painting sheep, games, news time and learning to stand to attention!

1st Lisburn Anchors are back to BB and they recently made Leaf Lanterns using the activity card from the termly programme resources.

2nd Ballynahinch kicked off the new session with a fundraising car wash at the Church Hall.

1st Mountjoy Juniors are glad to be back at BB. It’s great to see them enjoying activity sheets provided by the District in their BB Restart Pack.

Mission 22 is on! Having originally been planned for last year, Mission 22 will run in four locations in NI on four consecutive Saturdays in February 2022 and is for all BB members. Planning is well underway as we partner with Crown Jesus Ministries to deliver two events:

Mission 22 can be hosted at any convenient time and a full ‘How To’ guide to run this will be available. Follow up material is also being produced to explore the legacy of Mission 22. Full details of Mission 22 can be found including booking links and promotional material to download: boysbrigadeni.org

• Klass Kids for under 11s running 3.30-4.30pm on each of the four Saturdays

• One Way Youth for over 11s in the evenings from 7.309pm

Additionally, there will be a virtual experience of the Mission 22 events on offer for those that cannot get to the venues or are disrupted and cannot attend. The Virtual

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Contact:

028 9268 8444

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Monthly prayer Zoom meetings for the events have been running throughout 2021 and NI leaders are encouraged to join in and pray for all the children and young people who will attend Mission 22; that they would come to know Jesus.

@ nihq@boys-brigade.org.uk

ompanies in Scotland were eager to get back to face-to-face activities after schools restarted in August. It's been great to hear of many Companies being able to celebrate welcoming new members along. Using the #OpenToBB materials to support visibility and the new programme resources 4th/5th Fraserburgh have made it known to their community that they’re back and have something great to offer children and young people. The Company maintained its profile during the pandemic sharing #BBatHOME activities and then met outdoors when restrictions allowed. Now back meeting indoors the Company is continuing to find different ways to engage with other organisations. Recently their Anchors created artwork for a local business trail, all age groups have taken part in beach and community cleans, they enjoyed a trip to a recent home game supported by Fraserburgh FC in the Community and had an outing to the Scottish Assault Course. They also hope that the STEM course that they had started in cooperation with the North East Scotland College will restart soon. They have also shown creativity in accessing community funding such as £1,000 from the David and June Gordon Memorial Fund and £750 from the Arnold Clark Community Fund. Company Captain Martin Dunbar says, “providing a programme of activities across the four age groups has allowed us to provide fun and exciting opportunities for children and young people to gain new skills, experiences, learning and personal discovery.”

FOCUS SCOTLAND

Achieving more together Throughout the pandemic 1st Blackburn (West Lothian) continued to support and engage their members, using the #BBatHOME resources, sending out activity packs and running virtual sessions via Zoom. One of their neighbouring Companies, 3rd/4th Bathgate, had a more challenging journey over the last 18 months.

Contact:

0300 303 4454

After some discussion both Companies have now agreed to work together, believing they can achieve more and be more effective together. Having a larger pool of young people and leaders to work with has made the start of the new session an exciting time for both Companies. Encouragingly both Companies have also now issued their first President's Badges in well over a decade.

@ support@boys-brigade.org.uk @BBGAZETTE

BOYS-BRIGADE.ORG.UK/GAZETTE

FOCUS REPUBLIC OF IRELAND

here was a lot of excitement in the Republic of Ireland to get back to being able to run face-to-face activities once again. The Brigade’s new programme resources are already proving popular and have been very gratefully received by Companies.

Outdoor Adventures Despite ongoing restrictions on youth work, 7th Dublin continued a busy programme of outdoor activities during the Summer and Autumn months. As their programme of virtual activities came to an end, the Company moved to making full use of all the amazing green spaces around them. A highlight was the "Adventure Activity Days" in the wilder parts of Swords River Valley Park. These days involved wading through waterfalls, crossing a river by rope and flying model gliders across the river! The Company age group also spent an evening on the BMX Track in St. Anne’s Park on their bikes, and navigated

Throughout the summer, they were thankful to have been also able to use the Rectory field in Raheny on Wednesday evenings for activities, including football, Connect 4, badminton and more. The final outdoor activity before the start of the new 2021-22 session started was the Anchors and Juniors “water-fight night” which was very much enjoyed by all attendees!

Getting back to activity days and trips During the summer 1st Longford had the opportunity to meet face-to-face for the first time in well over a year. They met on the grounds of the Longford Methodist Church and had the privilege of meeting the newly appointed Chaplain, Rev Simon Scott. They set up an obstacle course and finished with a game of football. Everyone went home with a lovely goody bag and had high hopes of meeting more regularly.

CONTACT:

their way to various points in the Park using maps and compass.

+353 (1) 296 4622

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1st Tralee were recently able to go on their first trip in 18 months, visiting Sandy Feet Farm which is a family run farm in Tralee. The young people were able to meet some interesting animals and interact with the smaller animals There was also plenty of activities to enjoy including a zipline, races on the pedal kart track and a tractor trailer ride. This was all finished off with a spot of lunch in the café.

Unit C1 Nutgrove Office Park, Nutgrove Avenue, Rathfarnham, Dublin 14, Ireland

t the start of the new session many Companies in England and Wales have been turning their attention to climate change and the importance of looking after the environment both locally and globally

Raising awareness of climate change Members of 1st Swansea Eastside took part in a 14 mile walk from their meeting space to Margam Abbey near Port Talbot, in an effort to raise awareness of climate change. Rachel Bunting, a leader at 1st Swansea Eastside, said: “Our walk was part of the relay walk to COP26, which also allowed us to link up with the Diocese and Christian Aid Cymru. We wanted our young people to be involved in something bigger and it gave us an opportunity to explain about what COP26 is, why Christians think the environment is important, and a bit about corporate responsibility. Our young people are really active and they enjoyed the chance to do something together, outside, that was a bit of a challenge!” Inspired by what had happened in Swansea, the Wales District events team put together a community clean-up challenge which included an introductory devotional by

Unite 2022

the District Chaplain to share why it is important to look after the environment. Several Companies have taken up the challenge and planned litter picks in their local areas. This included the Juniors at 2nd Blackwood along with their families, who collected 5 bin bags of litter from around their Church and the nearby river. The litter included some strange items such as a glowstick, old electrical plugs and a beach towel! Whilst doing this they completed the ‘A Rubbish Adventure’ activity, ticking off items as they found them, as well as learning about how different types of litter can affect the wildlife. They were also able to hand out a couple of invitations to join the Company, as well as receiving a donation from a passer by who was thankful for what they were doing.

We are delighted to announce that Unite 2022 will take place on the Platinum Jubilee Weekend, Thursday 2nd to Sunday 5th June, at Felden Lodge (BB Headquarters).

FOCUS ENGLAND & WALES

Unite is a camp with a difference providing a unique opportunity for young people and leaders across to meet, explore their faith and enjoy a range of activities together. The event has a semi-structured programme of campstyle activities and faith development/worship available for two main age groups (11 to 14 and 15 to 18) over the duration of the event. Find out more, including details of how to book your group to attend, at: unitebb.org.uk

CONTACT:

0300 303 4454

@ support@boys-brigade.org.uk @BBGAZETTE

BOYS-BRIGADE.ORG.UK/GAZETTE

TOOLBOX Introducing e-learning for leaders

B leaders should always be striving to improve the quality of experience for children and young people in the organisation. As part of the current five-year strategic plan, the Leader Development Group have been looking at ways of introducing a culture of Continuous Personal Development (CPD) at all levels within the organisation.

This is looking not just at what training we might complete when we first become a leader, but ways that we can continue to develop our skills and refresh our knowledge throughout our volunteering journey.

Training for leaders within the BB has traditionally taken place face-to-face. However, this has meant that it is not always at the most convenient time or in the ‘right’ location for everyone. Earlier this year in response to the pandemic, Youth Leader Training (YLT) was adapted for virtual delivery and the feedback from this has been really positive. So, we are looking at how we continue to offer opportunities to complete training in a variety of settings. Whilst the opportunities for people to come together and spend time in fellowship can never be underestimated, having the flexibility of learning at a time which suits and independent of a specific location, has many benefits. This enables leaders to take ownership of their own learning in the way that is best suited to their needs.

Taking a look at the new e-learning modules We have developed a series of e-learning modules, accessible to all leaders, that will help us to meet our core training needs and provide opportunities for continuous personal development (CPD) going forward. These modules will be launched in the New Year and will be accessed through Online Brigade Manager (OBM).

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As an organisation we are investing in e-learning as part of our commitment to improve the quality and consistency of our training, and to ensure leaders can access the training required to fulfil their role safely and effectively. Our e-learning modules can be accessed at any time of day, using a wide range of devices, from anywhere with an internet connection.

e-learning is the use of technology to enable people to learn anytime and anywhere. Four e-Learning modules have initially been developed:

• Introduction to BB – The module assists in welcoming new

leaders, introducing the organisation’s roots, structure and vision, helping to provide a greater understanding of their role within the organisation.

• Safeguarding – The module helps leaders understand

safeguarding and child protection in the context of their role. It also introduces the 4 R's – the way we Recognise, Respond to, Report and Record any concerns about a young person or leader. There is also guidance about the expected behaviours and actions of leaders.

• Managing Risk – The module supports leaders to create a safe space for children and young people. It provides information about safe environments, roles and responsibilities, how to assess and manage risk, how to respond to and report an emergency.

• Delivering a Quality Programme – The module sets out

our age group programmes and looks at how leaders can get involved in the planning and delivery of a high-quality programme which meets the needs of children and young people.

e-learning for existing leaders The e-learning modules will be available in the New Year to all leaders and once they go live existing leaders are encouraged to login to OBM and complete the modules as part of their continuous personal development. The aim is that by the end of the session ALL leaders will have completed the Safeguarding and Managing Risk modules. This will ensure that all existing leaders are up to date with the knowledge that they need, to understand their responsibilities and carry out their role safely and effectively within the BB.

e-learning for new leaders For new leaders, e-learning will become a mandatory part of the registration process from the New Year, with Introduction to BB, Safeguarding and Managing Risk modules being completed before they can start work in a Company. This ensures that all leaders, irrespective of category, undertake training to provide them with the knowledge that they need, to understand their responsibilities and carry out their role safely and effectively.

Completing the e-learning modules Once the e-learning modules are launched all leaders will be able to access them through Online Brigade Manager (OBM). All leaders can register for OBM, enabling access to view/edit personal details as well as view your training records (known as ‘Qualifications’ in OBM) and complete e-learning modules.

Logging in for the first time If you are logging into OBM for the first time you should go to http://obm.boys-brigade.org.uk/register/ to register your account. You will need your Leader Registration Number to hand to be able to complete registration, you will find this on your Leader Registration Card and correspondence sent to you by BB Headquarters. Should you need to confirm your Leader Registration Number please email support@boys-brigade.org.uk. Once you have registered you will be asked to create a password and from there on in you will be able to login easily using your email address and password.

For leaders attending Youth Leader Training, the e-learning modules will become part of the pre-course preparation that must be completed prior to attending the course.

Why are we asking leaders to complete these modules? We all want to ensure that The Boys’ Brigade is a safe and caring environment for children and young people, and where any concerns arise they are responded to appropriately. The BB has not previously offered ongoing training and development in these areas and so whilst many will have received training on their appointment, they may not have received anything since to keep their knowledge up to date on changes in legislation, policies, and procedures. e-learning as a platform for delivery, will enable us to be confident that we are doing all we can to create a safe environment for everyone. Article Continued @BBGAZETTE

BOYS-BRIGADE.ORG.UK/GAZETTE

Once you have logged into OBM to access the e-learning modules go to ‘My Membership’ (in bottom left hand corner) and ‘My e-learning’. From here you will be able to view all the modules currently available for you to complete, just click ‘Start Module’ to get going. The modules do vary in time required to complete them from around 15 - 45 mins.

What do I need to be able to complete e-learning? To complete the e-learning modules on OBM you just need access to a device which has internet connectivity and sound (i.e. speakers/ear phones). The e-learning modules are ‘responsive’ meaning you can easily access and complete the modules on a phone or a tablet as well as a desktop or laptop computer. Once the e-learning modules are launched all leaders will be able to access them through Online Brigade Manager (OBM). All leaders can register for OBM, enabling access to view/edit personal details as well as view your training records (known as ‘Qualifications’ in OBM) and complete e-learning modules. We know that some leaders may not have access to a device and would encourage other leaders in the Company to support them by providing access to a device and supporting them in registering, accessing and completing the modules. Our Support Team can also provide step by step instructions and support if you have any questions.

? As you go through the modules information will be shared with you through text, images and videos; and you will be asked at various points to demonstrate your understanding through ‘Knowledge Checks’. The Knowledge Checks will ask you to respond by answering questions and matching statements. Once you have completed an e-learning module this will be shown in ‘My Qualifications’ (found under ‘My Membership’ in bottom lefthand corner when logged into OBM). Following completion, you will also have the ability to download and/or print a certificate, and you may be asked to provide this where e-learning is required before participating in further training. BB Headquarters and those with access to relevant records at other levels (Battalion/ District) will be able to view your training records including e-learning.

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Look out for further details about the launch of e-learning in January and if you have any questions, get in touch with our Support Team on 0300 303 4454 or email:

support@boys-brigade.org.uk

Company Finder and Online Joining Forms

e have recently re-launched our Company Finder as part of our new look website and this brings with it improved functionality. In this Toolbox article we highlight how this all works including the options available to Companies and how you can ensure your Company information is visible and up to date.

Over 6,500 searches on the Company Finder (October 2021)

an enquiry form, with separate forms to capture details for children and young people as well as volunteers.

“The Company Finder is a great tool that can really support recruitment. Our experience is that if a parent/carer takes the time to complete an online enquiry then they are serious about their child joining the BB. The majority of our online enquiries convert to new members.” Simon, 45th Glasgow

The Company Finder is an important tool in enabling potential new members and volunteers to find out more about your Company, and it should be seen as an integrated part of your recruitment efforts. It provides essential details of each and every Company and the ability for potential new members to get in touch with your Company. Searches on the Company Finder are increasing each month which is great to see.

Company Finder Parents/carers and potential volunteers can find their nearest Company using a postcode or town/city, with the nearest 10 Companies being shown (based on distance as the crow flies) on a map. When selecting a Company from the list, they will be able to see the meeting place, age groups with meeting day/ times and if the Company is working with boys only or with boys & girls. Where a Company has a website a link to this is also provided. There is also the ability to click through to complete Article Continued

With the enquiry form for children and young people the default option is based on a standard web based form, but where a Company has set up the OBM Joining/Waiting List Enquiry Form then this replaces the standard form (see below for more about the OBM Joining/Waiting List Enquiry Form). The enquiry form captures contact details about parent/carer or volunteer and details about child/young person including name, date of birth and sex. Where a Company has set up a Company email address the enquiry (when completed on the standard form) will be sent directly to the Company, where there is no Company email address the enquiry will be dealt with initially by HQ Support Team. You can check out the Company Finder by going to

boys-brigade.org.uk/find-a-group/

When adding a website please ensure you add ‘http://’ or ‘https://’ before the website address (i.e. https://boys-brigade. org.uk). If your Company does not have a website but does have a public Facebook page or similar then you can also link directly to that here.

• Map – Is the location of your Company shown correctly on

the map? Locations are set automatically based on postcode, but if it is not correct, you can edit this by going to the ‘Company’ in OBM and then to ‘Settings’ and ‘Section Details’. Scroll down to the bottom of this page to ‘Section Location’ and click edit, you can then adjust the map marker. Once you have updated information on OBM it will automatically update the Company Finder, although please allow a few hours for this to take place. Check out VIDEO tutorial on Setting up Company Finder & Online Enquiry Forms

boys-brigade.org.uk/obm-resources/

OBM Joining/ Waiting List Updating your Company details If you need to update your details on the Company Finder you can do this by logging into OBM as follows:

• Church/Meeting Place – You will need access to the

‘Company’ in OBM and should go to ‘Settings’ and ‘Section Details’. You can update your ‘Church Address’ here and also where necessary set up an alternative meeting place. This would be used where the Company has a meeting place which is different to the Church Address. If you complete this and tick the relevant box to make this the ‘Set as Primary Meeting Place’ this address will be used by the Company Finder instead of the Church Address.

• Age Group Meeting Day/Times – You will need access to the relevant age groups and should go to ‘Settings’ and ‘Section Details’ to add in or change the meeting day or times.

• Working with Boys or Boys & Girls – This is shown based on your Company designation, so if you are shown as working with a Girls' Association it will show as Boys & Girls.

• Website or Email Address – You will need access to the

‘Company’ in OBM and should go to ‘Settings’ and ‘Section Details’. Both the website address and email address can be amended here.

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New functionality on OBM enables Companies to set up a Joining/Waiting List Enquiry Form which links up with the Joining/Waiting List in OBM. This can help reduce administration, simplify communication and will enable you to keep everything in one place. Once set up the Joining/Waiting List Enquiry Form is automatically linked up to the Company Finder, and rather than the default enquiry form parents/carers will be taken to a Joining/Waiting List Enquiry form on OBM. Once you have set up the Joining/Waiting List Enquiry Form a unique link will be generated to the form which you can use outside of the Company Finder. It is ideal for sharing on your Company website, social media or in emails, enabling you to channel all enquiries through to one place.

Enquiry Form example

Setting up Joining/Waiting list The waiting list can be used at any time to record the details of future members you are looking forward to welcoming. Children and young people can be added manually by leaders through the Joining/Waiting List section in OBM. By setting up the Joining/Waiting List Enquiry form, records can be created in the section by parents/carers by going through the Company Finder or through a link you can make available on your website or via social media. To set up the OBM Joining/Waiting List log into OBM and navigate to this section and go to ‘Settings’ and ‘Parent Portal Settings’. You will need to enable the Joining/Waiting List Enquiry Form and this will then generate a unique link which will go through to the form for your Company. You should go through the options on this page and set these as applicable.

encouraged to edit the template and customise the email for your Company. You should also go to ‘Emails’ within the ‘Parent Portal Settings’ to set the ‘Email from Address’ and other fields here including adding an email address to be copied in by completing the ‘Send Email Copies’ field. This should either be a Company email address or that of a leader who will be monitoring enquiries, as this is the way you will know a new enquiry has been submitted. Once a child or young person has been added to the Joining/ Waiting List you can easily communicate with them by email or SMS through OBM by going to ‘Personal Details’ and as and when appropriate transfer them into the relevant age group. You can also invite the parent/carer to log in to OBM at any stage and you could ask them to directly complete other key bits of information.

Making the most of OBM We hope that you will find these developments useful in supporting your recruitment efforts. Don't forget OBM offers a wide range of functionality which could help streamline administration in your Company. Find out more about how OBM can help support you and your Company at

boys-brigade.org.uk/obm-resources/

If you have any questions or need some help getting going please feel free to get in touch with us at support@boys-brigade.org.uk or on 0300 303 4454.

Chris Norman

Delivery & Programme Manager When the Joining/Waiting List Enquiry form is completed an email will be sent to confirm the enquiry has been received, and whilst there is a default email template for this you are

Follow Chris on Twitter at:

@chrisnormanbb

@BBGAZETTE

BOYS-BRIGADE.ORG.UK/GAZETTE

GET INVOLVED RALEIGH INTERNATIONAL

ollowing the recent UN climate talks in Glasgow, find out more about Raleigh International’s Re:Green programme and how young people could benefit from getting involved. Our mission - to ignite youthled action that creates solutions to the world's most urgent problems.

With 35 years of experience of working with young people in more than 100 countries around the world, we believe they are vital catalysts of change. Raleigh International believes in equipping young people with the tools they need to develop campaigns which tackle the climate crisis. Through our programmes young people lead in the conservation of some of the most important and biologically diverse environments in the UK. Across the UK woodland tree cover has been in decline and over the last 20 years. On a local scale this

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negatively impacts native wildlife and is detrimental to communities which benefit from treescapes for health and wellbeing, while on a global scale decreasing tree cover is a dangerous contributor to climate change due to the ability of trees to absorb carbon, a harmful greenhouse gas causing global warming. Raleigh International’s Re:Green UK programme is working through young volunteers aged 18-25, to protect Scottish rare native woodland on the West coast of Scotland. Our Re:Green programme takes young volunteers into the heart of Scotland’s rainforest to root out and cut down the invasive species while supporting with tree-planting and wildlife monitoring. But the volunteers are not only taking physical action for the environment. By getting involved in the Re:Green programme young people are learning more about environmental campaigning and are taking part in a crash course on conserving nature, building practical conservation skills which they can take with them after the programme. Through the experience, skills and knowledge they develop on the Re:Green programme, young people are being supported to become nature conservationists not just to preserve Scottish rainforest, but also nature across the UK.

Young people today are leaders who hold the key to protecting the UK’s natural environment. They are the most socially conscious generation ever and are passionate about tackling the challenges we face from climate change.

Jamie Baird

Raleigh International

Are you ready to take action?

• Join Raleigh International’s Re:Green

programme to preserve nature and protect some of the UK’s rarest natural landscapes.

• Through the programme you will take

part in projects which will give you the space to learn and engage with nature conservation, from there, take action for the environment across the rest of UK.

• Re:Green programme is open to young people across the UK aged 18-25 as volunteers and those aged 25+ as volunteer managers.

To find out more about the story of Raleigh International visit:

raleighinternational.org/about-us/ ourstory Check out our BB programme resources focusing on climate change:

boys-brigade.org.uk/programme-bbleaders

@BBGAZETTE

BOYS-BRIGADE.ORG.UK/GAZETTE

GLOBAL FDF National Camp 2022

he FDF have confirmed that they are planning to hold their National Camp Landslejr2022 from 6th to 15th July 2022 at the FDF Outdoor Centre Sletten in Denmark and offer an open invitation to all Global Fellowship member organisations to attend. The camp promises to be an amazing event and will offer loads of activities ranging from playing lots and lots of games, doing group activities, to cooking and eating your own dinner, construction of your own camp site, having fun with old as well as new friends around the campsite, big evening entertainment shows, activities at

the main square, prayers, singing songs, evening/night activities and much, much more. There will be devotions every morning with prayers music, songs and stories. Participants will also experience the biggest Church service in Denmark, when around 15,000 people gather for Sunday worship. The FDF are keen to do everything possible to help overseas visitors attend the camp. You can find more information about the camp at: landslejr.fdf.dk/international-camp or contact Jesper Ottosen at jottosen@fdf.dk

UN Climate Conference Margaret Pang, a leader at 7th Gloucester and a member of the Brigade’s International Group, recently joined a Global Fellowship delegation at the United Nation’s Climate Conference (COP26) in Glasgow. Margaret commented, "Climate change is a reality that is impacting our planet and it is the responsibility of every individual to contribute towards a brighter future. It is the younger generation that will see more of the increasing changes to the environment so we need to take action. Who else should be more invested than us in our own future? Imagine the difference all the children and young people involved with BB could make if we committed to live our lives slightly greener, whilst inspiring others to do the same!"

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Global Round-up A snapshot of what is going on in BB and Global Fellowship member organisations around the globe:

NEW BB PILOT GROUPS It's great to see new BB work going on around the world. 18 pilot groups are now meeting in Pakistan and volunteers from churches in Ethiopia are currently being trained with a view to starting the BB there early next year.

BB GHANA ON TV BB Ghana recently gave their Bible knowledge competition a facelift, with the best entrants from across their regions selected to participate in a contest on the Ghanaian national TV programme “What Do U Know?”.

BB SINGAPORE CHARACTER QUEST Over 900 Seniors from 55 Companies in Singapore took part in an online Character Quest competition. Despite some technical glitches there was a great show of unity and enthusiasm from those taking part!

BB BAHAMAS BEAC H CLEAN-UP BB members in the Bahamas recently undertook a beach cleanup, which was all part of working to the UN’s Sustainable Goals. Well done to everyone who took part!

CAMPING IN LESOTHO BB Lesotho organised a special camp to mark the Brigade’s 138th birthday on 4th October. Pictured are some of the NCOs who took part.

ALPINE MOUNTAIN TRAINING

Members of BB and ICONZ in the North Island of New Zealand took part in Alpine Mountain Training. They went up Mount Ruapehu and stayed for a weekend at SUNZ Adventure Lodge, having the opportunity to learn about snow craft and to put it into practice. They also did thermal bush walks, a hot pool soak and an alpine trail to Silica Rapids in the pouring rain. @BBGAZETTE

BOYS-BRIGADE.ORG.UK/GAZETTE